In the quiet, early morning hours of September 25, 2010, the life of Robert Louis Jackson Jr., a 35-year-old male from Forestville, Maryland, was tragically cut short. He was discovered in his car in the 3200 block of Walters Lane, having been fatally shot. The grim discovery marked the beginning of a homicide investigation into the untimely death of a man known for his deep faith and vibrant personality.
Robert, or 'RJ' as he was affectionately called by those who knew him, was a
dedicated federal employee, working for the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission of Maryland. His life, however, was more defined by his passions outside of his professional career. A graduate of Aliquippa High School's class of 1992, he was deeply involved in his church, Ridgley Ministries, C.O.G.I.C., in Upper Marlboro. His commitment to his faith was evident in his role on the Board of Ministers at The First Church of God In Christ in Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, where he was also heavily involved in the music ministry.
Those who knew Robert described him as a man with a brilliant smile, a great sense of humor, and an infectious laugh. He was beloved within the gospel and music industry, and his participation in praise and worship was considered phenomenal by friends and family. His death sent ripples of shock and grief through his community, leaving behind his parents, a sister, a brother, and a host of other family members and friends who cherished him.
In the days following his death, law enforcement officials ruled his case a homicide. The investigation into who was responsible for the shooting on that September morning began, but information regarding any potential suspects or arrests has not been publicly released. The story of Robert Louis Jackson Jr.'s death is one of a life full of promise and dedication to faith and community, a life that ended in a violent act that, according to available online sources, remains an unresolved chapter.